Zamorano interns carry unique perspectives into NY ag research

At Zamorano University, you are studying environmental science and development. How did this lead you to pursue a position at NMSP?

I joined NMSP because their focus on nutrient management and precision agriculture aligns with my career interests. I hope to help improve the sustainability of agricultural production systems, and I believe that precision agriculture and data-driven practices are key to the future of sustainable farming.

Coming to Cornell CALS, I knew that I would have the opportunity to collaborate with top professionals who have unique expertise and gain some hands-on experience in field studies. I think this will all contribute to my professional growth.

What are you looking forward to at NMSP?

Gaining the technical skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in sustainable agriculture. 

What are your career goals, and how will your time at NMSP help you achieve them?

I have a background in both animal and crop production, so my immediate goal is a master’s in production systems. At NMSP, I aim to improve my expertise in crop science while expanding my technical knowledge, refining research skills, and advancing professionally, all of which will help me in my future studies.

What was your work experience at Zamorano?

Since I am also studying environmental sciences and development, like Jamael, I’ve worked in a variety of different laboratories on soil science, water quality and chemistry projects. 

What drew you to NMSP?

I was really interested in the work that NMSP does, the team’s different projects, and the opportunity to learn from the people who are heading those projects. Now that I’m here, I believe that NMSP is the bridge between sciences and practices. That work is really important, and I want to be part of it.

What are you looking forward to the most at NMSP?

To see and work with equipment that I haven’t been able to use before, to see the farms and to work with data collection and analysis. I also want to gain a deeper understanding of NMSP’s projects. Back at Zamorano, we have many opportunities to gain practical experience, but we have limited resources compared to here.

How will your time at NMSP help you achieve your career goals?

I want to pursue a master’s, a PhD and a postdoc— I want everything in the book. I think that NMSP will help me gain important skills to apply to my future graduate studies. I’m leaning towards a career in soil microbiology and agroecology, that’s my niche.

How has your experience been so far?

I want to give a shout out to Manuel Marcaida for his amazing cakes and the ice cream. It’s a great team. We’ve met many people, and they are always so welcoming. I’ve never experienced such a comfortable environment in the workplace. I’m learning a lot from all of them, and I’m excited to be a part of the program and to take advantage of the opportunity as best I can.

Why did you decide to study agriculture academically?

I always knew that I would like to study something related to the environment. I grew up surrounded by water, plants and animals, and I knew I would end up in that field once more.

What drew you to NMSP?

I had heard really good things from Zamorano students who had previously done similar internships with NMSP, so when the opportunity came, I followed through on it.

What are you hoping to accomplish here? 

It will be good to be out of my comfort zone. Even though agriculture is familiar to me, working with a team this big is something new. I think it will influence how I interact with people and socialize. I tend to be shy, so this will help me communicate professionally and put myself out there more. I’m also excited to visit farms, to talk to the ones that know the most, that do the work, and also to get to know the place.

Do you have any specific career goals?

I like to explore a lot. So, I’m interested in marine biology or ornithology. Opportunities come and go and you have to pursue them, so I’m happy to see how I can combine all of my passions and interests.

What got you interested in agricultural sustainability?

At first, I was undecided between agricultural engineering and environmental engineering. I love the environment and the feeling of being surrounded by green in the mountains, so while I choose environmental engineering, I am still very tied to the agricultural side. The world is everything, and I know that we need to improve our agricultural systems to help preserve it.

What drew you to the NMSP?

NMSP allows a hands-on experience that I could not get anywhere else. Of course, NMSP also aligns with my interests in sustainable production systems. Now that I’m here, I’d like to highlight how welcoming and supportive the NMSP team is. The team values have made the experience even more meaningful. 

What are you hoping to accomplish here? 

I’m hoping to put into practice all of the knowledge that I have gained so far and to get more experience from experts and colleagues. I also want to make sure that I am better prepared with stronger professional skills. 

Do you have specific career goals yet, or are you still exploring?

I’m exploring because we never know. I am open to anything; if the door is open, I am going to try.

Madeline Hanscom ‘22 is a communications assistant for the Nutrient Management Spear Program.